Burner head

ABSTRACT

A system and method for burning. The system includes a burner head which has a plurality of burners. The burner head also has a primary manifold coupled to a plurality of burner lines which are coupled to burners. The burners also have a secondary manifold coupled to a burner line. Each secondary manifold is coupled to a plurality of spokes which extend outwardly form the secondary manifold. The spokes have at least one nozzle.

PRIORITY

The present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/344,098 filed Jun. 1, 2016, entitled “Burner Head”, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical Field

The present invention relates to a system and method for a burner head.

Description of Related Art

Flares are used to combust and destroy gasses. The flares generally have very large flame lengths, and accordingly, many towns and residents do not want flares close to homes, businesses, or in the city limits. Consequently, it is desirable to have a flare which would be more suitable for towns and residents alike.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a burner head in one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a burner in one embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a shell in one embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a side profile view of a burner head in one embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a side profile view of a burner head in one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Several embodiments of Applicant's invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise noted, like elements will be identified by identical numbers throughout all figures. The invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein.

Flares are often a critical piece of equipment in many processes. Many chemical and oil and gas processes utilize flares to incinerate or burn off-gasses, undesirable by-products, etc. These flares operate as common burners, combusting fuel and air in the presence of a flame.

Often, depending upon the flow-rates of the gas, the type of gas, and the type of burner utilized in the flare, the flame on a flare can be 10 feet or higher. This is undesirable for many locations. As an example, many cities and towns have forbidden the use of burners with a flame length greater than 5 feet within the city limits. However, often it is necessary to have a flare within the city limits. Thus, one embodiment a burner is provided which can be utilized in a flare and result in a flame of less than 5 feet.

FIG. 1 is perspective view of a burner head in one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a burner in one embodiment. Similar elements have the same number in both figures.

Turning to FIG. 1, a burner head 100 comprising a plurality of burners 107 is depicted. The burner head 100, in some embodiments, is used to replace the previous burners located on a flare. The burner head 100 can comprise virtually any material.

A gas line, or other product needing to be burned or incinerated, herein after referred to as reactants, is in fluid communication with the burner head 100. The gas line brings the reactants to the primary manifold 101. A manifold, as used herein, refers to equipment which separates a single flow stream into two or more streams. The primary manifold 101 receives the single flow of reactants and separates them into a plurality of streams. Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate the various devices and methods which can be utilized on a manifold. In one embodiment the manifold has one upstream opening and two or more downstream openings. As used herein upstream and downstream refer to relative locations on a process. An upstream item occurs earlier in the process whereas a downstream item occurs later in the process. As the reactants progress closer to the flame, the reactants move downstream. Accordingly, in one embodiment the primary manifold 101 comprises one upstream opening to receive reactants and two or more downstream openings to send and divide reactants.

As depicted, the primary manifold is fluidly coupled to a plurality of burner lines 103. As used herein, fluidly coupled refers to a coupling such that a fluid, such as a gas or liquid, can flow between two objects. The number and size of the burner lines 103 will be dependent upon many factors including the type and flow rate of the reactants, the desired nozzle velocity, as well as the size of the outer shell, discussed in more detail below. As depicted in FIG. 1, there are six-teen burner lines 103 coupled to the primary manifold 101 but this is for illustrative purposes and should not be deemed limiting. Virtually any number, even or odd, of burner lines 103 can be utilized.

As depicted the burner lines 103 extend radially out from the primary manifold 101. Such an arrangement provides for optimal spacing and separation of the burner lines 103. In one embodiment the burner lines 103 extend radially away from the primary manifold 101 along the same vertical plane of the primary manifold 101. Put differently, all burner lines 103 couple to the primary manifold 101 a distance of two inches from the top of the manifold, for example. In other embodiments, however, two or more burner liens 103 extend radially away from the primary manifold 101 at two or more vertical planes. As an example, eight burner lines 103 can be coupled to the primary manifold 101 two inches from the top and eight other burner lines 103 are coupled 12 inches from the top of the manifold 101. Such an arrangement utilizing vertical spacing to space the burner lines 103 is referred to herein as multi-layering. When all burner lines 103 are coupled to the primary manifold 101 along the same vertical plane, this is referred to as single-layering. Multi-layering provides for an increased number of burner lines 103 compared to single-layering.

The burner lines 103 can be coupled to the primary manifold 101 via any method or device known in the art. In one embodiment they are coupled via bolts, screws, or the like. In other embodiments the burner lines 103 are welded onto the primary manifold.

The burner lines 103 are further fluidly coupled to the secondary manifold 102 located on the burners 107. The secondary manifolds 102 act similarly to the primary manifold 101 discussed above in that they further divide the flow among a plurality of spokes 104.

As depicted the spokes 104 extend radially out from the secondary manifold 102. This is for illustrative purposes only and should not be deemed limiting. The secondary manifold 102 can divide the flow of reactants from the burner lines 103 via any orientation or arrangement. The radially extending spokes 105, in one embodiment, allow the elongated nozzles 105, discussed in more detail below, to be sufficiently separated.

As depicted the spokes 104 extend radially outward from the hub of the secondary manifold 102. Here reactants are further divided into smaller discrete streams. The primary manifold 101 broke a large stream of reactants into several smaller streams, and the secondary manifold 102 further separates the flow of reactants into even smaller streams.

The number, size, orientation, and arrangement of the spokes 104 can be varied as discussed above. In one embodiment a single burner 107 comprises six spokes 104. As depicted, the spokes 104 are coupled via a single-layered arrangement, but this is for illustrative purposes only and should not be deemed limiting.

The spokes 104 can comprise a length, as measured from the secondary manifold 102 to the cap 106, of virtually any length and any diameter.

Turning now to FIG. 2, the operation and function of the spokes 104 can now be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a burner in one embodiment.

The spoke 104, as depicted, comprises a cap 106. The cap 106 prevents reactants from exiting the spoke 104 but through the nozzle 105. As depicted the nozzle 105 comprises an elongated nozzle. The cap 106 can comprise any method or device known to the stop and prevent passage of the flow of reactants. In one embodiment the cap 106 comprises an end which has been coupled to the end of the spoke 104. The cap 106 can be coupled to the end of the spoke 104 via any attaching device or method known in the art including, but not limited to, welding, soldiering, etc. The cap 106 can be added to the downstream end of the spoke 104 or the cap 106 can be integrally made. The purpose of the cap 106, in any form, is to ensure all reactants exit the spoke 104 only through the nozzle 105.

As depicted, the spokes 104 comprise at least one nozzle 105. In the embodiment depicted, the nozzle comprises an elongated nozzle. An elongated nozzle 105, as used herein, refers to an extended nozzle through which gas exits and combusts with surrounding air. In one embodiment, and as depicted, the elongated nozzle 105 extends for the majority of the length of the spokes 104. In one embodiment the elongated nozzle 105 extends greater than 80% of the length of the spokes 104.

An elongated nozzle 105 is contrasted with a point nozzle wherein reactants, such as gasses, are directed to a single opening, often in the shape of a circle. A point nozzle directs all reacts to a single point, concentrating the reactants, and accordingly, increasing flame length. An elongated nozzle 105, however, in one embodiment disperses the reactants along the length of the elongated nozzle 105. The result is that the flame and combustion occurs along an increased surface area compared to a point nozzle, lowering the flame height.

The elongated nozzle 105 can comprise virtually any shape. In one embodiment the elongated nozzle 105 is linear whereas in other embodiments the elongated nozzle 105 is curved. As noted, in one embodiment the goal is to increase surface area.

The elongated nozzle 105 can be formed in a variety of ways. In one embodiment a slid of hole is created in the spokes 104. In other embodiments the elongated nozzles 105 are directed in an upward direction. As an example, in the figure depicted the spokes 104 comprise an oval cross-section which comprises a larger diameter on the upstream side of the elongated nozzle 105 (down in the figure) than the downstream side of the elongated nozzle 105. This causes the reactants to flow in the upward direction. This can be accomplished by either forcing the upstream side (below the nozzle 105) outward or forcing the downstream side (above the nozzle 104) inward.

In one embodiment each spoke 104 comprises a single elongated nozzle 105. In other embodiments, however, each spoke 104 comprises two or more elongated nozzles 105. As depicted, each side of the spoke 104 comprises an elongated nozzle 105. This allows combustion to occur on both sides of the spokes 104, further increasing surface area and accordingly decreasing flame height.

As noted, in one embodiment the spokes 104 comprise a curved cross-section. They can comprise a substantially circular or a substantially oval cross-section. The spokes 104 can comprise any cross-section, but a curved cross-section offers some benefits based on air flow. Referring still to FIG. 2, as the flame adjacent to the spokes 104 burn, they consume oxygen. In doing so, they cause an updraft which pulls air upward toward the flame. When the updraft air hits the upstream side of the spokes 104, the air is divided as it must flow around the perimeter of the spokes 104. The spokes 104, in one embodiment, use the theory of adhesion with the air during the combustion.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a shell in one embodiment. A shell, as used herein, refers to equipment which at least partially surrounds the burner head 100. In one embodiment the burner head 100 completely surrounds the shell 108. In one embodiment the burner head 100 is installed within the shell 108 such that no flame is visible during operation. Put differently, the flame is hidden from view by being located on the internal side of the shell 108.

As depicted, the shell 108 comprises a vessel with an open shell top 109 and a shell bottom 110. In one embodiment the burner head 100 is inserted such that the flame rises in the direction of the open shell top 109. In one embodiment the shell 108 prevents the flame from being visible. Pedestrians driving by, accordingly, will simply see a shell 108 and will be unable to view the flame. This is a benefit in many circumstances.

As noted, open flares comprising a flame height of greater than 5 feet are often disallowed within the city limit. The increased surface area of the burners 107 discussed herein offers a reduced flame height of 4-6 feet in some embodiments. In other embodiments the flame height is less than 5 feet. In still other embodiments the flame height is about 3 feet. A shorter flame height means that the burners 107 can be used in confined spaces which was not possible with greater flame lengths. Further, a reduced flame height allows the burners 107 to be utilized within the city limits, often much closer to the equipment and processes which necessitate the flare.

As an example, consider a flare which comprises a 5 inch diameter pipe and burns 2 MM cubic feet of gas. The resulting flame height is approximately 6 feet and had a nozzle speed of 0.28 mach. However, utilizing the burners 107 discussed herein, the same flow rate resulted in a flame height of about 3 feet and a reduced nozzle speed of 0.14 mach. The new burner 107 had a similar or increased surface area compared to the 5 inch diameter and accordingly did not create back pressure. Further, a reduced nozzle speed of 0.14 means that there is reduced smoke. A nozzle speed of 0.28 or above typically results in considerable smoke as the gas is burning too quickly. However, a reduced nozzle speed results in reduced smoke as the gas is burning more thoroughly.

While one embodiment has been discussed in reference to an elongated nozzle, this is for illustrative purposes only and should not be deemed limiting. The elongated nozzle, as described above, provides increased surface area compared to a single point nozzle. However, the benefits of increased nozzle surface area, which include reduced flame height, can be achieved by increasing the number of point nozzles. Thus, rather than having a single point nozzle, a plurality of point nozzles can be utilized to increase the effective surface area of the nozzle. FIG. 4 is a side profile view of a burner head in one embodiment, and FIG. 5 is a side profile view of a burner head in one embodiment.

FIGS. 4 and 5 show a burner head with three burner lines 103. As noted, this is for illustrative purposes only and should not be deemed limiting Like the burner head 100 in FIG. 1, the burner head 100 comprises a primary manifold 101 which couples to the burner lines 103. The burner lines 103 then couple with a secondary manifold 102. From there, the secondary manifold again splits the reactant feed into a plurality of spokes 104. As depicted the burner comprises four spokes 104, but this is for illustrative purposes only and should not be deemed limiting. Those skilled in the art will be able to modify the number and placement of spokes 104.

The spokes 104 comprise a plurality of point nozzles 105. As depicted, each spoke comprises four point nozzles 105, but this is for illustrative purposes only. In one embodiment a plurality of point nozzles 105 are placed along the length of the spoke 104. In one embodiment a plurality of point nozzles 105 are placed linearly and adjacent to one another along the length of the spoke 104. In this manner, rather than having a single point, the surface area is increased because there are a plurality of nozzles 105.

In some embodiments a plurality of point nozzles 105 offers benefits over elongated nozzles. For example, having a plurality of point nozzles 105 allow each nozzle 105 to be adjusted, replaced, or modified as desired. Each nozzle 105, for example, can be adjusted to balance the flow. Accordingly, in one embodiment at least one of the nozzles 105 is adjustable. This allows the flame height to be more accurately controlled.

One benefit of the burner assembly discussed herein is the ability to modify as necessary. For example, if the flowrate of gas is to be increased, then an additional burner 107 can be added. This would involve adding an additional burner line 103 to the primary manifold 101. Likewise, if the user wanted to increase burner surface area for any other reason, including controlling nozzle speed, back pressure, etc., the user can simply add or remove a burner line 103 and the associated burner 107 as required.

Another variable that the user can adjust as necessary to control flow rate, nozzle speed, back pressure, etc. is the width of the elongated nozzle 105. This width can range from about 1 mm to about 10 mm. The width as described herein, the distance of the elongated nozzle 105 between the upstream side of the nozzle 105 and the downstream side of the nozzle 105. The width, in one embodiment and as depicted, is approximately perpendicular to the length. Those skilled in the art will understand how to optimize the elongated nozzle width to account for various reactant streams, flow rates, etc.

As noted, another benefit, in some embodiments, is the ability to cover the flame in an outer shell. In some embodiments an open flame is unsightly or undesirable. Accordingly, having the ability to cover the flame in an outer shell provides benefits in some embodiments.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for burning, said system comprising: a burner head comprising a plurality of burners; wherein said burner head comprises a primary manifold coupled to a plurality of burner lines; wherein said burner lines are coupled to said plurality of burners; wherein said plurality of burners each comprise a secondary manifold coupled to a burner line; wherein each secondary manifold is coupled to a plurality of spokes which extend outwardly from said secondary manifold; wherein each of said spokes comprises at least one nozzle.
 2. The system of claim 1 wherein said nozzle comprises at least one elongated nozzle extending along the length of said spoke.
 3. The system of claim 3 wherein said elongated nozzle extends for more than 80% of the length of said spoke.
 4. The system of claim 1 wherein each of said spokes comprises a plurality of nozzles located along the length of said spoke.
 5. The system of claim 4 wherein at least one of said nozzles is adjustable.
 6. The system of claim 4 wherein said system comprises three burner lines coupled to three burners, and wherein each burner comprises four spokes.
 7. The system of claim 6 wherein each of said spokes comprises four nozzles.
 8. A burner comprising: a burner line coupling to a secondary manifold; wherein said secondary manifold is coupled to a plurality of spokes which extend outwardly from said secondary manifold; wherein each of said spokes comprises at least one nozzle.
 9. The burner of claim 8 wherein said nozzle comprises at least one elongated nozzle extending along the length of said spoke.
 10. The burner of claim 8 wherein said elongated nozzle extends for more than 80% of the length of said spoke.
 11. The burner of claim 8 wherein each of said spokes comprises a plurality of nozzles located along the length of said spoke.
 12. The burner of claim 11 wherein at least one of said nozzles is adjustable.
 13. The burner of claim 11 wherein said burner comprises four spokes.
 14. The burner of claim 13 wherein each of said spokes comprises four nozzles. 